Metrics for planning and evaluating science and technology

Abstract

SummaryMetrics, those criteria applied to assess the potential, current or past performance of technologies and/or individuals, are of increasing interest to those involved in research commercialization. Debates on metrics focus to a considerable extent on mechanisms for ensuring the objectivity and credibility of the processes by which evaluation criteria are selected. Many experts have concluded that metrics commonly applied to S&T assessments suffer from the “you get what you measure” bias. This article presents ten principles and seven critical factors developed by the author in the course of extensive research into the development of effective metrics for assessing scientific and technological (S&T) outcomes.